Title: The Survivor
Year: 2022
Director: Barry Levinson
Country: US
Language: English
Ever since I saw Ron Howard's Cinderella Man (2004) & Martin Scorsese's Raging Bull (1980) I found myself fascinated with the specific genre that is period piece boxing movies. The incredibly violent sport is rife for intense character studies about people who have gone through hell and back.
The Survivor is about Harry Haft. He is a Holocaust survivor who was forced to use his boxing skills to fight fellow prisoners to the death. Haunted by his memories; he seeks to find love and redemption post WWII.
Barry Levinson's The Survivor is a gritty psychological drama that deals with survivor's guilt and trauma. The story weaves throughout the past and present to tell the story of a man who is worn down by time. The cinematography and score compliment the thoughtful character study by providing a haunting atmosphere.
Ben Foster's commitment to his character is startling. At 40yrs old the actor lost 52lbs to give himself a gaunty malnourished looks similar to photos one has seen from the Holocaust. His portrayal of Harry Taft is worthy of at least an Oscar Nomination.
The pacing can be off near the middle of the film, resulting in some of this picture feeling a bit too slow, but ultimately The Survivor is a worthwhile watch if you're in the mood for an emotional tearjerker.
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